Install New Drain Fitting — Install the New Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Remove and Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 6 of 7
In this video
Apply a thick ring of plumber's putty around the underside of the new drain fitting's flange. Insert the new brass fitting into the drain opening from inside the tub. From below, attach the gasket and thread on the new drain shoe. Use a drain wrench from above and pliers from below to tighten the assembly until the excess putty squeezes out, creating a watertight seal.
Goal: Securely install and seal the new drain fitting in the bathtub.
- Apply putty to both the top flange and the bottom gasket area if the tub lip is damaged to ensure a better seal.
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Holding and tightening the new drain fitting from inside the tub.
- Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — Tightening the nut on the drain assembly from below the tub.
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FAQs
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and how long does it typically take?
This is a beginner-friendly plumbing project, but patience is key, especially with old, corroded parts. Expect it to take 1-2 hours, depending on how easily the old flange comes out and the amount of cleaning required. Factor in additional time for thorough leak testing to ensure a watertight seal.
Do I really need a special tub drain wrench, or can I use other tools to remove the old flange?
A dedicated tub drain wrench (like the Husky Double Ended Tub Drain Wrench 16PL0128) is highly recommended. It provides the best grip and leverage, minimizing the risk of stripping the flange or damaging the tub. While some might try large pliers or screwdrivers with a hammer, these often cause more damage and frustration.
My old drain flange is stuck or severely corroded. How can I remove it without damaging the tub?
If the flange is very stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few hours to loosen corrosion. Use the tub drain wrench firmly but carefully to avoid stripping the interior. For extremely stubborn or corroded flanges, you might need to carefully cut the crossbars inside the flange with a reciprocating saw and then break out the pieces, always protecting the tub surface.
What's the best way to ensure a watertight seal and prevent future leaks when installing the new flange? Should I use plumber's putty or silicone?
Plumber's putty is generally preferred for this application. Apply a generous, even bead of Oatey Plumber's Putty underneath the lip of the new flange before setting it into the drain opening; it should squeeze out when tightened. For added security, you can also wrap Teflon tape around the drain shoe threads before screwing in the new flange.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Install New Drain Fitting — Install the New Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Remove and Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 6 of 7
In this video
Apply a thick ring of plumber's putty around the underside of the new drain fitting's flange. Insert the new brass fitting into the drain opening from inside the tub. From below, attach the gasket and thread on the new drain shoe. Use a drain wrench from above and pliers from below to tighten the assembly until the excess putty squeezes out, creating a watertight seal.
Goal: Securely install and seal the new drain fitting in the bathtub.
- Apply putty to both the top flange and the bottom gasket area if the tub lip is damaged to ensure a better seal.
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Holding and tightening the new drain fitting from inside the tub.
- Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — Tightening the nut on the drain assembly from below the tub.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and how long does it typically take?
This is a beginner-friendly plumbing project, but patience is key, especially with old, corroded parts. Expect it to take 1-2 hours, depending on how easily the old flange comes out and the amount of cleaning required. Factor in additional time for thorough leak testing to ensure a watertight seal.
Do I really need a special tub drain wrench, or can I use other tools to remove the old flange?
A dedicated tub drain wrench (like the Husky Double Ended Tub Drain Wrench 16PL0128) is highly recommended. It provides the best grip and leverage, minimizing the risk of stripping the flange or damaging the tub. While some might try large pliers or screwdrivers with a hammer, these often cause more damage and frustration.
My old drain flange is stuck or severely corroded. How can I remove it without damaging the tub?
If the flange is very stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few hours to loosen corrosion. Use the tub drain wrench firmly but carefully to avoid stripping the interior. For extremely stubborn or corroded flanges, you might need to carefully cut the crossbars inside the flange with a reciprocating saw and then break out the pieces, always protecting the tub surface.
What's the best way to ensure a watertight seal and prevent future leaks when installing the new flange? Should I use plumber's putty or silicone?
Plumber's putty is generally preferred for this application. Apply a generous, even bead of Oatey Plumber's Putty underneath the lip of the new flange before setting it into the drain opening; it should squeeze out when tightened. For added security, you can also wrap Teflon tape around the drain shoe threads before screwing in the new flange.
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Video Transcript
(296 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.